Major milestone achieved for dual-code trainer

Sydney-based horseman Blake Fitzpatrick started training and driving in 1999 and 24 years on has proven to be an undeniable talent.

On Saturday night at Tabcorp Park Menangle Fitzpatrick celebrated his success by bringing up his 900th winner as a trainer in the New South Wales Breeders Challenge Eastern Region Final for the two-year-old harness racing fillies with Libby Lou (Sweet Lou).

Fitzpatrick’s ability with horses has been further proven by him holding a dual license to train both standardbreds and thoroughbreds, excelling at both and juggling his time between both codes at either his own Cawdor stables in Sydney’s southwest or Kembla Grange where his gallopers are based.

When asked how he finds the time to keep up with it all, Fitzpatrick insists that it is not just a one-man band, explaining the wonderful support his wife Lisa and children Ethan, Zara, and Ava give him.

“It is a satisfying achievement that I have been able to train 900 standardbred winners that is for sure,” said Fitzpatrick.

“I have a great team behind me at home who have supported me all the way through. I also have some incredible supporters, clients who have given me some lovely horses to train, so without all of that I could never have had such good success.

“Life can get quite hectic at times juggling our time between both codes, but it is a labour of love, and we get it done.”

Libby Lou’s victory was a feature win that was well-deserved following her third-placing in the major final of the Breeders Challenge in October.

The filly is raced by highly successful breeder Jackie Gibson and the well-bred youngster has recorded two wins and five placings from her nine starts this season.

“She is a really nice filly that has come a long way in a short time,” said Fitzpatrick.

“The ability has always been there, it has just taken a little bit of time for her to mature.

“But now the penny has dropped, her talent is certainly starting to shine through.”

For complete race entries, click here.

by Michael Dumesny, for HRNSW